Inverter system

Abstract

The present application provides an inverter system, which includes: a switch that alternates between a closed state and an open state to respectively conduct or block the current passing through the switch; and a switch controller that controls the operation of the switch between the closed state and the open state. In a first operating mode, the controller controls the operation of the switch to convert direct current into a single common phase of alternating current output from the same phase of each of the switches to use the single phase of alternating current to power a higher demand load of a power receiving system. In a second operating mode, the controller controls the operation of the switch to convert the direct current into a plurality of alternating currents of different phases to use the plurality of alternating currents of different phases to power a lower demand load of the power receiving system. Each of the switches outputs a different phase of the plurality of phases.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 665,169, filed May 1, 2018, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] Embodiments of the subject matter disclosed herein relate generally to inverters. Background Art

[0004] An inverter converts one power waveform into another power waveform, for example, converting direct current (DC) into alternating current (AC). Conventional inverters include a plurality of semiconductor switches (e.g., insulated gate bipolar transistors, power MOSFETs, and / or the like) that are switched on and off in an alternating manner by a driver circuit to produce an output AC waveform. Some power receiving systems include different inverters that power different loads of the power receiving system. For example, some vehicles may include an inverter that powers a traction motor that propels the vehicle, and may include a different inverter that powers auxiliary systems and / or components. Summary of the invention

[0005] In an embodiment, an inverter system includes: a plurality of switches that alternate between a closed state and an open state to respectively conduct or block current passing through the switches. The system includes: a plurality of switch controllers that control the operation of the switches between the closed state and the open state. In a first operating mode, the switch controller controls the operation of the switches to convert direct current into a single common phase of alternating current output from the same phase of each of the switches to use the single phase of alternating current to power a higher demand load of a power receiving system. In a second operating mode, the switch controller controls the operation of the switches to convert the direct current into a plurality of alternating currents of different phases to use the plurality of alternating currents of different phases to power a lower demand load of the power receiving system. Each of the switches outputs a different phase of the plurality of phases.

[0006] In an embodiment, a method includes: in a first operating mode, using a plurality of switch controllers, causing a plurality of switches to alternate between a closed state and an open state to conduct direct current supplied to the switches into a single common phase alternating current output from the same phase of each of the switches. The method also includes: in a different second operating mode, using the plurality of switch controllers, causing the switches to alternate between the closed state and the open state to convert the direct current into a plurality of alternating currents of different phases. Each of the switches outputs a different phase of the plurality of phases. The single common phase alternating current generated in the first operating mode is supplied to a power receiving system as a higher demand load; and the plurality of different phase alternating currents generated in the second operating mode are supplied to the power receiving system as a lower demand load.

[0007] In an embodiment, a vehicle inverter system includes: a plurality of switches that alternate between a closed state and an open state to respectively conduct or block current through the plurality of switches. The system includes: a plurality of switch controllers that control the operation of the switches between the closed and open states. In a first operating mode, the switch controller controls the operation of the switches to convert direct current into a single common phase of alternating current from the same phase output of each of the switches to power a propulsion generating load of a vehicle system with the single phase of alternating current. In a second operating mode, the switch controller controls the operation of the switches to convert direct current into a plurality of alternating currents of different phases to power a non-propulsion generating load of the vehicle system with the plurality of alternating currents of different phases. Each of the switches outputs a different phase of the plurality of phases.

[0008] In an embodiment of the subject matter described herein, an inverter system includes: a plurality of switches capable of being controlled between a closed state and an open state to respectively conduct or block current through the switches; and a plurality of switch controllers to control the operation of the switches between the closed state and the open state. In a first operating mode, the switch controller controls the operation of the switches to convert a first direct current into a single common first power output from all of the switches to use the first power output to power a higher demand load of a power receiving system. In a second operating mode, the switch controller controls the operation of the switches to convert the first direct current into a plurality of second power outputs to use the second power output to power one or more lower demand loads of the power receiving system. Each of the switches outputs a different one of the plurality of second power outputs, the second power output having a different voltage level or a different waveform from each of the other second power outputs. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] The presently described subject matter will be better understood by reading the following description of non-limiting embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0010] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an inverter system of a power receiving system according to an embodiment;

[0011] Figure 2 is a diagram of an inverter system operating in a first operating mode according to an embodiment;

[0012] Figure 3 is a diagram of an inverter system operating in a second operating mode according to an embodiment;

[0013] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of a plurality of inverter groups of a power receiving system according to an embodiment;

[0014] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A diagram of a plurality of inverter groups operating in a first operating mode; and

[0015] Figure 6 is a flowchart of an operating method of an inverter system of a power receiving system according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0016] The inventive subject matter described herein provides an inverter system that can be used to power one or more loads of a power receiving system. The inverter system operates in different operating modes to power different loads of the power receiving system using the same hardware. The inverter system includes a plurality of switches and a plurality of switch controllers that control the operation of each switch between an open state and a closed state. When operating in a first operating mode, each switch of the inverter system can convert direct current from a power source into alternating current of a single common phase to power a higher demand load of the power receiving system. Alternatively, when operating in a second operating mode, each switch in the same switch of the same inverter system can convert direct current into alternating currents of multiple different phases to power a lower demand load of the power receiving system.

[0017] With reference to the accompanying drawings, similar reference numerals denote identical or corresponding parts in several views. However, the inclusion of similar elements in different views does not mean that a given embodiment must include these elements or that all embodiments of the present invention must include these elements.

[0018] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a power receiving system 10. The power receiving system 10 includes an inverter system 100 and a DC link bus 120. In one embodiment, the power receiving system 10 can be a vehicle or a vehicle power system (e.g., an automobile, a mining vehicle, a rail vehicle, a ship, or other self-propelled vehicle), and the inverter system 100 can be used to power a load (e.g., a traction motor, an auxiliary system or component, other loads, etc.). Alternatively, the power receiving system 10 can be a fixed power generation system. The inverter system 100 includes a plurality of switches 102, 104, 106 electrically coupled to each other. In one or more embodiments, the switches 102, 104, 106 can be electrically coupled to each other in parallel electrical connection or in series electrical connection.

[0019] In the illustrated embodiment, the inverter system 100 is a multi-phase inverter with several phase module assemblies. For example, the inverter system 100 can be a three-phase inverter with three phase module assemblies. Optionally, the inverter system 100 can have any number of phase module assemblies. In one or more embodiments, each switch 102, 104, 106 can be a packaged insulated gate bipolar transistor (IGBT) and an antiparallel diode integrated in a housing, or another solid-state semiconductor-based device. Optionally, each switch can be a power metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor (MOSFET), a thyristor, etc. In one or more embodiments, the inverter system can include a plurality of ordinary switches (e.g., all IGBT devices), a plurality of unique switches, or any combination thereof. In other embodiments, the semiconductor-based device (switch) can be a silicon carbide (SiC) device and / or a gallium nitride (GaN) device.

[0020] The DC link bus 120 is operably coupled to a power source 118 (e.g., a battery, etc.), and the power source 118 supplies power to the DC link bus 120 in the form of direct current (DC). Each switch 102, 104, 106 of the inverter system 100 is operably coupled to the bus 120 through a conductive plate, a trace, a bus, etc. The DC link bus 120 provides DC to each switch 102, 104, 106, and the switch 102, 104, 106 converts the DC into a single-phase alternating current. Optionally, the DC link bus 120 can also provide an electrical connection between the inverter system 100 and one or more systems, components, power sources, etc. outside the power receiving system 10.

[0021] Each switch 102, 104, 106 is operably coupled to a switch controller 112, 114, 116. Each switch controller 112, 114, 116 controls the operation of each corresponding switch 102, 104, 106, respectively. Optionally, the switch controller 112, 114, 116 may include a gate driver, or also referred to as a gate driver in this document. The switch controller 112, 114, 116 controls the operation of the switch 102, 104, 106 between an open state and a closed state. For example, when operating in the open state, the switch is open and blocks current from being conducted through the switch, and when operating in the closed state, the switch is closed and current is conducted through the switch.

[0022] Each switch controller 112, 114, 116 is operably coupled to the main controller 140. The main controller 140 may include a hardware circuit that includes and / or is connected to one or more processors (e.g., one or more field programmable gate arrays, one or more microprocessors, and / or one or more integrated circuits) that perform the operations described herein in conjunction with the main controller. The main controller 140 controls the operation of each switch controller 112, 114, 116 between an open state or a closed state. For example, the main controller 140 may send a control signal to one or more of the switch controllers 112, 114, 116, the control signal indicating when each switch is open or closed. The main controller 140 may be manually operated by an operator of the power receiving system 10, or the main controller 140 may be autonomously operated by one or more processors, an operating system, and the like. Optionally, the inverter system 100 may not include the switch controllers 112, 114, 116, and the main controller 140 may control the operation of each switch 102, 104, 106. Optionally, the inverter system 100 may be controlled by one or more additional controllers or alternative controllers.

[0023] The switch controllers 112, 114, 116 control the operation of the switches 102, 104, 106 to operate the inverter system 100 in different operation modes. For example, the switches 102, 104, 106 can provide multiple different phases of AC power, a single common phase of AC power, multiple different phases of DC power, a single common phase of DC power, or a combination thereof to power one or more loads of the power receiving system 10. The AC power or DC power output by each switch 102, 104, 106 based on the operation mode of the inverter system 100 is described in more detail below.

[0024] The inverter system 100 is operably coupled to a main switch 110. For example, each switch 102, 104, 106 is operably coupled to the main switch 110 so that the AC or DC provided by each switch is directed through the main switch 110. The main switch 110 directs the AC or DC converted by each switch 102, 104, 106 to a higher demand load 122 or a lower demand load 124. For example, relative to the lower demand load 124, the higher demand load 122 may require a certain amount of power to operate.

[0025] The inverter system 100 can operate in different modes based on which of the higher demand load 122 or the lower demand load 124 needs to be powered. In one embodiment, when operating in a first operating mode, the switch controllers 112, 114, 116 can direct one or more of the switches 102, 104, 106 to open and / or close to provide AC from one or more of the switches 102, 104, 106 to power the higher demand load 122 of the powered system 10. Alternatively, when operating in a different second operating mode, the switch controllers 112, 114, 116 can direct one or more of the switches 102, 104, 106 to open and / or close to provide AC from one or more of the switches 102, 104, 106 to power the lower demand load 124 of the powered system 10. The main switch 110 may direct AC from the inverter system 100 to the higher demand load 122 or the lower demand load 124 based on whether the inverter system 100 is operating in the first operating mode or the second operating mode.

[0026] Alternatively, in one embodiment, when operating in a first operating mode, the switch controllers 112, 114, 116 may direct one or more of the switches 102, 104, 106 to open and / or close to provide a DC power output having a first voltage level and a first power level from one or more of the switches 102, 104, 106 to power a higher demand load 122 of the powered system 10. Alternatively, when operating in a different second operating mode, the switch controllers 112, 114, 116 may direct one or more of the switches 102, 104, 106 to open and / or close to provide a plurality of different DC power outputs from one or more of the switches 102, 104, 106 to power a lower demand load 124 of the powered system 10. The plurality of DC power outputs may have a voltage level and / or power level lower than the first voltage level and the first power level of the DC power outputs of the switches 102, 104, 106 operating in the first operating mode.

[0027] In one embodiment, the inverter system 100 can be configured to have a voltage range of about 1.7 kilovolts (kV) to about 4.5kV and a current range of about 300 amperes (A) to about 650A. Optionally, the inverter system 100 can have different power outputs, so that the voltage range is greater than 4.5kV and / or less than 1.7kV, and / or the current range is greater than 650A and / or less than 300A. In one or more embodiments, a plurality of inverter systems can be coupled together to achieve different power ranges. For example, a plurality of inverter systems can each be configured to have a voltage of about 1.7kV, and the coupled inverter systems can achieve a power output of about 3.3kV and 1800A. In another embodiment, the inverter system can be configured to output between about 500kW and about 1350kW at 300A. In an alternative embodiment, the inverter system can be rated to output between about 1000kW and about 3000kW at 650A. Alternatively, one or more inverter systems may have alternative power outputs and / or power output ranges.

[0028] Figure 2 1 is a diagram of an inverter system 100 operating in a first operating mode according to an embodiment. The inverter system 100 operating in the first operating mode provides a single common first power output for a higher demand load 122 of the power receiving system 10. For example, the first power output may be a direct current output or a single-phase alternating current output. In the first operating mode, the switch controllers 112, 114, 116 control the operation of the switches 102, 104, 106 to convert the first direct current from the DC link bus 120 into a single common phase first power output from the same phase output of each switch 102, 104, 106 to power the higher demand load 122 with a single phase of alternating current. Graph A is a graph showing the first direct current supplied to the inverter system 100. Graph B shows the alternating current converted by the first switch 102, Graph C shows the alternating current converted by the second switch 104, and Graph D shows the alternating current converted by the third switch 106. Each of the graphs A to D has a horizontal axis representing time and a vertical axis representing voltage. Alternatively, graphs B to D may respectively show direct current outputs converted by the first switch, the second switch, and the third switch.

[0029] As shown in graph A, Figure 1The DC link bus 120 of the inverter system 100 supplies direct current, and the line of the bus power 220 is substantially constant. Graphs B, C, and D show the AC waveforms of the alternating current output by each switch 102, 104, and 106. As shown in graphs B, C, and D, respectively, the first switch 102 converts direct current into a first switch output 202, the second switch 104 converts direct current into a second switch output 204, and the third switch 106 converts direct current into a third switch output 206. The first, second, and third switch outputs 202, 204, and 206 have a common phase with each other. For example, the phase of the alternating current output from each switch 102, 104, and 106 can be the same phase. Additionally, the first, second, and third switch outputs have a common voltage amplitude and a common period (e.g., a common waveform over time).

[0030] Graph E shows that the first, second and third switch outputs 202, 204, 206 are combined into an alternating current of a single common phase 208. For example, the individual switch outputs 202, 204, 206 are added together to form an AC of a single common phase 208. The voltage amplitude of the single common phase 208 can be three times the voltage of each of the first, second or third switch outputs 202, 204, 206. Additionally, the single common phase 208 has a phase common to the phase of each switch output 202, 204, 206. The waveform of the common phase 208 has a time period common to the period of each switch output 202, 204, 206. When operating in the first operating mode to power the higher demand load 122 of the power receiving system 10, the main controller 140 controls each switch to operate in series or parallel together so that each switch 102, 104, 106 converts direct current into alternating current of a single common phase 208. For example, when operating in the first operating mode, the inverter system 100 provides an amount of power that is greater than the amount of power provided by each of the individual switches 102, 104, 106. The individual switches are stacked together or coordinated with each other to provide power to provide an increased amount of current relative to the inverter system 100 not operating in the first operating mode. In the illustrated embodiment, the inverter system 100 includes three switches 102, 104, 106 that convert DC to AC power of a single common phase 208 to power the higher demand load 122 of the power receiving system 10. Alternatively, the inverter system 100 may include any number of switches that can convert direct current to AC power of a single common phase with any voltage amplitude.

[0031] Figure 3is a diagram of the inverter system 100 operating in the second operating mode according to one embodiment. The inverter system 100 uses the same hardware to operate in the second operating mode to provide multiple power outputs for the lower demand loads 124 of the power receiving system 10. For example, the power outputs can be three-phase alternating current of different phases for powering one or more of the lower demand loads 124, or the power outputs can be direct current outputs having a voltage and / or power level lower than the voltage and / or power level of the direct current output of the inverter system 100 operating in the first operating mode.

[0032] In the second operation mode, the switch controllers 112, 114, 116 control the operation of the switches 102, 104, 106 to convert the direct current from the DC link bus 120 into a plurality of alternating currents of different phases to power the lower demand load 124 with the alternating currents of different phases. Graph A is a graph showing the direct current supplied to the inverter system 100. Graph B shows the alternating current converted by the first switch 102, Graph C shows the alternating current converted by the second switch 104, and Graph D shows the alternating current converted by the third switch 106. Each of the graphs A to D has a horizontal axis representing time and a vertical axis representing voltage. Alternatively, graphs B to D may respectively show the direct current output converted by the first switch, the second switch, and the third switch.

[0033] Figure 3 The curve A corresponds to Figure 2 Graph A. Graph A shows that the line of bus power 220 is substantially constant as the DC link bus 120 supplies direct current to the inverter system 100. Graphs B, C, and D show the AC waveforms of the alternating current output by each switch 102, 104, and 106. As shown in graphs B, C, and D, respectively, the first switch 102 converts direct current to a first switch output 302, the second switch 104 converts direct current to a second switch output 304, and the third switch 106 converts direct current to a third switch output 306. The first, second, and third switch outputs 302, 304, and 306 have substantially common voltage amplitudes and common time periods, but have different phases. In the example shown, the phases of the outputs 302, 304, and 306 deviate from each other by sixty degrees. For example, the first switch output 302 starts the phase at time T=0, the second switch output 304 starts the phase at time T1, and the third switch output 306 starts the phase at time T2. Alternatively, the AC waveforms of the first, second, and third outputs 302 , 304 , 306 may have a different voltage amplitude and / or a different period than each of the other outputs 302 , 304 , 306 .

[0034] Graph E shows that the first, second and third switch outputs 302, 304, 306 are combined into a plurality of different phases 308 of alternating current, which is used to power the lower demand load 124 of the power receiving system 10. When operating in the second operating mode to power the lower demand load 124 of the power receiving system 10, the main controller 140 controls each switch 102, 104, 106 to operate as an independent switch, so that each switch 102, 104, 106 converts direct current into alternating current of a plurality of different phases 308. For example, when operating in the second operating mode, the amount of power provided by the inverter system 100 is substantially the same as the amount of power provided by each of the individual switches 102, 104, 106. In the illustrated embodiment, the inverter system 100 includes three switches 102, 104, 106 that convert DC into alternating current of three different phases 308 to power the lower demand load 124 of the power receiving system 10. Alternatively, the inverter system 100 may include any number of switches that can convert direct current into any number of alternating currents with different phases.

[0035] When using the same hardware, the inverter system 100 can provide a single common phase to power a higher power load, and can provide multiple different single phases to power a lower power load. For example, the inverter system 100 can use the same hardware for both the first operating mode and the second operating mode to operate in the first operating mode or the second operating mode. When using the same hardware, the main controller 140 controls the operation of each switch controller 112, 114, 116 between the open state and the closed state to operate the inverter system 100 in the first operating mode (e.g., to power a higher demand load of the power receiving system) or to operate the inverter system 100 in the second operating mode (e.g., to power a lower demand load of the power receiving system). Optionally, the main controller 140 can control the operation of the switch controllers 112, 114, 116 to operate the inverter system in any number of different operating modes.

[0036] In one embodiment, the higher demand load 122 may be a propulsion generating load of the power receiving system 10, which propels the vehicle of the power receiving system 10. For example, the first operating mode may also be referred to herein as a traction inverter mode. When operating in the traction inverter mode, the inverter system 100 may provide a single common phase of AC power to power the power receiving system 10 to propel the vehicle of the power receiving system 10.

[0037] In one embodiment, the lower demand load 124 may be a non-propulsion generating load of the power receiving system 10. For example, the second operating mode may also be referred to herein as an auxiliary inverter mode. When operating in the auxiliary inverter mode, the inverter system 100 may provide multiple different phases 308 of AC power to power the power receiving system 10 to operate one or more systems of the power receiving system 10. For example, the amount of power provided by the inverter system 100 when operating in the auxiliary inverter mode may be less than the amount of power when operating in the traction inverter mode. For example, the amount of power from the inverter system 100 required to operate the higher demand load 122 may be greater than the amount of power from the inverter system 100 required to operate the lower demand load 124. The single common phase output 208 of the inverter system 100 operating in the first operating mode (e.g., traction inverter mode) for powering the higher demand load 122 has a voltage amplitude greater than the individual voltage amplitudes of the multiple different phase outputs 308 of the inverter system 100 operating in the second operating mode (e.g., auxiliary inverter mode) for powering the lower demand load 124.

[0038] In one or more embodiments, the main controller 140 or the switch controllers 112, 114, 116 may control the switches 102, 104, 106 to operate in an operation mode different from the first operation mode or the second operation mode. For example, the inverter system 100 may be controlled to operate in a third operation mode so that the first and second switches 102, 104 convert the DC power into a single phase output, and the third switch 106 converts the DC power into a phase output different from the single phase output of the first and second switches 102, 104. Alternatively, one or more of the switches 102, 104, 106 may convert the DC power into an AC power having a waveform having a phase, cycle, and / or voltage amplitude that may be common or unique to the AC power provided by one or more other switches.

[0039] In one or more embodiments, the inverter system 100 may include one or more switches controlled via a switch controller, and the power receiving system 10 may include a plurality of different inverter systems, which may be coupled to each other inverter system to form a building block. For example, each inverter system may include a single switch and a switch controller that controls the operation of the switch, and may be housed, held, or contained in a housing or chassis (e.g., with a heat sink, an external plug, etc.). The inverter system may be coupled to one or more additional inverter systems, and each inverter system may operate in conjunction with each other inverter system. A plurality of different inverter systems may be held in a common socket or rack, or may be separated from each other.

[0040] Figure 4Schematic diagram of multiple inverter groups 400A, 400B, 400C of a power receiving system 10 according to one embodiment. Each of the inverter groups 400A, 400B, 400C includes multiple switches and multiple switch controllers. For example, the first inverter group 400A includes switches 102, 104, 106 and switch controllers 112, 114, 116 that control the operation of each switch 102, 104, 106. The second inverter group 400B includes switches 402, 404, 406 and switch controllers 412, 414, 416 that control the operation of each switch 402, 404, 406. The third inverter group 400C includes switches 502, 504, 506 and switch controllers 512, 514, 516 that control the operation of each switch 502, 504, 506. In the illustrated embodiment, the power receiving system 10 also includes a main controller 440 that controls the operation of each switch controller of each inverter group 400A, 400B, 400C. Optionally, one or more of the inverter groups 400A, 400B, 400C can be controlled by an alternative controller, method or system. The main controller 440 can be manually controlled by an operator of the power receiving system 10, and / or can be autonomously controlled by one or more processors of the main controller 440, etc., using the firmware or software of the main controller 440.

[0041] When operating in the first operation mode, each of the inverter groups 400A, 400B, 400C converts the first direct current from the DC link bus 120 into a single common phase alternating current, which is different from the single common phase alternating current converted by each other inverter group 400A, 400B, 400C. Optionally, each inverter group 400A, 400B, 400C can convert the first direct current into a direct current output. Figure 5 Show Figure 4 Each inverter group in the plurality of inverter groups of the inverter group operates in a first operation mode. The first inverter group 400A converts direct current into alternating current of a first single common phase 502A from each switch 102, 104, 106 of the first inverter group 400A. For example, the phase of the AC output from each switch of the first inverter group 400A can be the same phase. Each output from each switch 102, 104, 106 is added together to produce an alternating current of a first single common phase 502A. Additionally, the second group 400B converts the first direct current into an alternating current of a different second single common phase 502B from each switch 402, 404, 406 of the second inverter group 400B. For example, the AC output from each switch of the second inverter group 400B can be in the same phase. Each output from each switch 402, 404, 406 is added together to produce a second single common phase 502B.

[0042] The third inverter group 400C converts the first direct current into an alternating current of a third single common phase 502C from each switch 502, 504, 506 of the third inverter group 400C. The third single common phase 502C is different from the first phase 502A and the second phase 502B. Each output from each switch 502, 504, 506 is added together to generate the third single common phase 502C. For example, the phase of the AC output from each switch of the third inverter group 400C can be the same phase. Each of the common phases 502A, 502B, 502C can be used to power the higher demand load 122 of the power receiving system 10 with the alternating current of each different single phase 502A, 502B, 502C.

[0043] In the illustrated embodiment, each inverter group 400A, 400B, 400C includes three switches that convert direct current into each single common phase 502A, 502B, 502C having substantially the same voltage amplitude. For example, each single common phase 502A, 502B, 502C has a voltage that can be three times the voltage of each switch of each inverter group. Optionally, one or more of the inverter groups 400A, 400B, 400C may have less than three or more than three switches. For example, an inverter group with two switches may convert direct current into a common phase alternating current having a voltage twice that of the alternating current voltage of each switch. Alternatively, an inverter group with four switches may convert direct current into a common phase alternating current having a voltage four times that of the alternating current voltage of each switch.

[0044] In addition, each inverter group 400A, 400B, 400C converts direct current into alternating current with different phases. In the illustrated embodiment, the phases of the outputs 502A, 502B, 502C are offset from each other by sixty degrees. For example, the first inverter group 400A has a first single common phase 502A starting at time T=0, the second inverter group 400B has a different second single common phase 502B starting at time T1, and the third inverter group 400C has a third single common phase 502C starting at time T2. In the illustrated embodiment, the waveform output of each inverter group 400A, 400B, 400C has a substantially common voltage amplitude and a common time period, but has different phases. Optionally, the first, second, and third inverter groups 400A, 400B, 400C can have any number of switches in any configuration, so that the inverter groups can output waveforms with common or unique voltage amplitudes, cycles, and / or phases relative to each other.

[0045] Each inverter group 400A, 400B, 400C is also operably coupled to a main switch 450. For example, each of the inverter groups 400A, 400B, 400C is operably coupled to the main switch 450 so that the AC provided by each switch is directed through the main switch 450. The main switch 450 directs the different single-phase AC converted by each inverter group 400A, 400B, 400C to one or more different higher demand loads (not shown) of the power receiving system 10.

[0046] In the case of using the same hardware, each inverter group 400A, 400B, 400C can be operated to provide a single common phase power output to power a higher power load, or to provide multiple different single phase power outputs to power a lower power load. For example, each inverter group 400A, 400B, 400C can use the same hardware for both the first operating mode and the second operating mode and operate in the first operating mode or in the second operating mode. In the case of using the same hardware, the main controller can control the operation of each switch controller of each inverter group between the open state and the closed state to operate each inverter group in the first operating mode (e.g., to power a higher demand load of the power receiving system) and / or operate each inverter group in the second operating mode (e.g., to power a lower demand load of the power receiving system).

[0047] In one or more embodiments, one or more inverter systems 100 can be operably coupled to two or more different power receiving systems (not shown). For example, a first inverter system can be operably coupled to a first vehicle of a vehicle group, and a second inverter system can be operably coupled to a second vehicle of a vehicle group. The first inverter system can be operated in a first operating mode to convert direct current into a single common phase power output (e.g., alternating current or direct current) to power a higher demand load of the first vehicle (e.g., a propulsion generating load that can be used to propel the vehicle). The second inverter system can be operated in a second operating mode to convert direct current into a plurality of different phase power outputs (e.g., alternating current output or direct current output) to power a lower demand load of the second vehicle (e.g., a non-propulsion generating load that can be used to power a vehicle auxiliary system). Optionally, both the first and second inverter groups can operate in the same first or second operating mode. Optionally, the operation of the first and second inverter groups can be controlled by a common master controller, or each of the first and second inverter groups can be controlled by a different master controller.

[0048] In addition, each inverter system 100 can have a common configuration relative to each other inverter group. For example, each system can have a housing (not shown) of a common shape, size, material, etc. In addition, each system can have a common number of radiators, wherein each radiator has a common brand, model, rating, common location, size, shape, etc. For example, the inverter systems can be used interchangeably with each other to power different loads of the power receiving system based on the different loads of the power receiving system that need to be powered.

[0049] Figure 6 600 is a flow chart of a method of operating an inverter system of a powered system according to one embodiment. At 602, it is determined whether a higher demand load of the powered system needs to be powered. The higher demand load may be a propulsion generating load that can be used to propel a vehicle of the powered system. Alternatively, the higher demand load may be a different load that can be used to operate one or more systems of the vehicle or vehicle system. Alternatively, the higher demand load may be any replaceable load of any powered system. If the higher demand load needs to be powered, the method proceeds to 604. Alternatively, if the higher demand load does not need to be powered, the method proceeds to 608.

[0050] At 604, a plurality of switches of the inverter system are controlled by a plurality of switch controllers so as to operate the inverter system in a first operating mode. Optionally, the first operating mode may be referred to as a traction inverter mode, which provides power to a propulsion generating load of a power receiving system. The switch controller and / or the main controller controls each switch to operate between a closed state and an open state to conduct a first direct current as a first power output of a single common phase from all switches to power a higher demand load with the first power output. The first power output may be a single-phase alternating current or may be a direct current output with a first voltage and a first power level. For example, when operating in the first operating mode, each switch output has power in common phase with each other output from each other switch. At 606, each switch output is added together to form an inverter system of a single common phase to power a higher demand load of a power receiving system with a single common phase power output.

[0051] At 608, it is determined whether a lower demand load of the powered system needs to be powered. The lower demand load may be a non-propulsion generating load of the powered system. Additionally, the lower demand load may be a load of the powered system that requires an amount of power that is less than the amount of power required to power a higher demand load of the powered system. If power needs to be supplied to the lower demand load, the method proceeds to 610. Alternatively, if the lower demand load does not need to be powered, the method proceeds to 614, where no action is taken and the inverter system is not used to power the load of the powered system.

[0052] At 610, a plurality of switches of the inverter system are controlled by a plurality of switch controllers to operate the inverter system in a second operating mode. Optionally, the second operating mode may be referred to as an auxiliary inverter mode, which supplies power to non-propulsion generating loads of the power receiving system. The switch controller and / or the main controller controls each switch to operate between a closed state and an open state to conduct direct current to a plurality of second power outputs. The plurality of second power outputs may be three-phase alternating currents of different phases or may be individual direct current outputs having a voltage and / or power level lower or less than the first voltage and first power level of the direct current output of the first power output. For example, when operating in the second operating mode, the power output of each switch output has a different phase relative to each other switch output. At 612, different power outputs (e.g., AC outputs or DC outputs) from each switch are used to supply power to lower demand loads of the power receiving system with alternating currents of a plurality of different phases.

[0053] Optionally, a plurality of switches and a plurality of switch controllers may be included in a single inverter group, and the power receiving system may include a plurality of different inverter groups. Each of the different inverter groups may include a plurality of switches and a plurality of switch controllers. In addition, each of the different inverter groups may convert direct current into a plurality of different single-phase alternating currents or direct current outputs. For example, a first group may convert direct current into alternating current of a first single common phase, and a second group may convert direct current into alternating current of a second single common phase different from that of the first group.

[0054] In an embodiment of the subject matter described herein, an inverter system includes a plurality of switches that alternate between a closed state and an open state to respectively conduct or block conduction of current through the plurality of switches. The system includes a plurality of switch controllers that control the operation of the plurality of switches between the closed state and the open state. In a first operating mode, the switch controller controls the operation of the switch to convert direct current into a single common phase of alternating current formed from the same phase output of each switch to use the single phase of alternating current to power a higher demand load of a power receiving system. In a second operating mode, the switch controller controls the operation of the switch to convert direct current into a plurality of alternating currents of different phases to use the plurality of alternating currents of different phases to power a lower demand load of a power receiving system. Each switch outputs a different phase of the plurality of phases.

[0055] Optionally, the plurality of switches and the plurality of switch controllers are included in a single inverter group among a plurality of inverter groups of the power receiving system. Each of the inverter groups converts direct current into alternating current of a different single phase relative to each other inverter group, so as to utilize the plurality of different single phase alternating currents to power higher demand loads of the power receiving system.

[0056] Optionally, a first inverter group among the multiple inverter groups converts direct current into alternating current of a first single common phase from each switch of the first inverter group, and a second inverter group among the multiple inverter groups converts the direct current into alternating current of a different second single common phase from each switch of the second inverter group.

[0057] Optionally, the plurality of switches are electrically coupled to each other in parallel electrical connection or in series electrical connection.

[0058] Optionally, the higher demand load is a propulsion generating load of a vehicle that propels the power receiving system, and the lower demand load is a non-propulsion generating load.

[0059] Optionally, the inverter system operates in a traction inverter mode when the switches convert direct current into alternating current of a single common phase from the same phase output of each switch.

[0060] Optionally, when the switch converts direct current into alternating currents of multiple different phases, the inverter system operates in an auxiliary inverter mode.

[0061] Optionally, the inverter system further comprises a main controller for controlling the operations of the plurality of switch controllers. The main controller directs the plurality of switch controllers to control the operations of the switches between a closed state and an open state.

[0062] Optionally, the same phase output from each of the switches are added together for a single common phase for the higher demand loads.

[0063] In an embodiment of the subject matter described herein, a method includes: in a first operating mode, using a plurality of switch controllers, causing a plurality of switches to alternate between a closed state and an open state to conduct direct current supplied to the switches into a single common phase alternating current output from the same phase of each of the switches. The method also includes: in a different second operating mode, using the plurality of switch controllers, causing the switches to alternate between the closed state and the open state to convert the direct current into a plurality of alternating currents of different phases. Each of the switches outputs a different phase of the plurality of phases. The single common phase alternating current generated in the first operating mode is supplied to a power receiving system as a higher demand load; and the plurality of different phase alternating currents generated in the second operating mode are supplied to the power receiving system as a lower demand load.

[0064] Optionally, the plurality of switches and the plurality of switch controllers are included in a single inverter group among a plurality of inverter groups of the power receiving system. Each of the inverter groups converts direct current into alternating current of a different single phase relative to each other inverter group, so as to supply power to a higher demand load of the power receiving system with the plurality of different single phase alternating currents.

[0065] Optionally, a first inverter group among the multiple inverter groups converts direct current into alternating current of a first single common phase from each switch of the first inverter group, and a second inverter group among the multiple inverter groups converts direct current into alternating current of a different second single common phase from each switch of the second inverter group.

[0066] Optionally, the plurality of switches are electrically coupled to each other in parallel electrical connection or in series electrical connection.

[0067] Optionally, the higher demand load is a propulsion generating load that propels a vehicle of the power receiving system, and the lower demand load is a non-propulsion generating load.

[0068] Optionally, the method further comprises operating in a traction inverter mode when the plurality of switches convert direct current into alternating current of a single common phase from a same phase output of each of the switches.

[0069] Optionally, the method further comprises operating in an auxiliary inverter mode when the switch converts the direct current into alternating currents of a plurality of different phases.

[0070] Optionally, the method further comprises controlling the operation of the switch controller using a master controller. The master controller directs the switch controller to control the operation of the switch between the closed state and the open state.

[0071] Optionally, the same phase output from each of said switches are added together for a single common phase for said higher demand loads.

[0072] In an embodiment of the subject matter described herein, a vehicle inverter system includes: a plurality of switches that alternate between a closed state and an open state to respectively conduct or block current through the plurality of switches. The system includes: a plurality of switch controllers that control the operation of the switches between the closed and open states. In a first operating mode, the switch controllers control the operation of the switches to convert direct current into a single common phase of alternating current from a same phase output of each of the switches to power a propulsion generating load of a vehicle system with the single phase of alternating current. In a second operating mode, the switch controllers control the operation of the switches to convert direct current into a plurality of alternating currents of different phases to power a non-propulsion generating load of the vehicle system with the plurality of alternating currents of different phases. Each of the switches outputs a different phase of the plurality of phases.

[0073] Optionally, the same phase output from each of the switches is added together for a single common phase for higher demand loads.

[0074] Optionally, the vehicle inverter system further comprises a main controller for controlling the operation of the plurality of switch controllers. The main controller directs the plurality of switch controllers to control the operation of the switches between the closed state and the open state.

[0075] In an embodiment of the subject matter described herein, an inverter system includes: a plurality of switches capable of being controlled between a closed state and an open state to respectively conduct or block current through the switches; and a plurality of switch controllers to control the operation of the switches between the closed state and the open state. In a first operating mode, the switch controller controls the operation of the switches to convert a first direct current into a single common first power output from all of the switches to use the first power output to power a higher demand load of a power receiving system. In a second operating mode, the switch controller controls the operation of the switches to convert the first direct current into a plurality of second power outputs to use the second power output to power one or more lower demand loads of the power receiving system. Each of the switches outputs a different one of the plurality of second power outputs, the second power output having a different voltage level or a different waveform from each of the other second power outputs.

[0076] Optionally, the first power output is single-phase AC power, the second power output is three-phase AC power of different phases for powering a single lower-demand load among one or more lower-demand loads, or the first power output is a DC power output having a first voltage and a first power level, and the second power output is a corresponding DC power output having a voltage level and a power level lower than the first voltage level and the first power level of the DC power output of the first power output.

[0077] Optionally, a single common first power output from all said switches is added together to power higher demand loads.

[0078] Optionally, currents from all of the switches are added together for a single common first power output to power higher demand loads of the powered system with the first power.

[0079] Optionally, the master controller is configured to control the operation of the plurality of switch controllers. The master controller directs the plurality of switch controllers to control the operation of the switches between the closed and open states.

[0080] Optionally, the higher demand load is a propulsion generating load of a propulsion power receiving system, and the lower demand load is a non-propulsion generating load.

[0081] In an embodiment, Figure 1 The power receiving system shown is a ship or includes a ship, which includes an inverter system 100 and a DC link bus 120. The inverter system 100 is configured to convert power sent to or from the DC link bus 120. The ship includes one or more electrical loads, which are configured to receive power (e.g., converted power) from the bus and / or the inverter system. Such loads may include auxiliary motors. Such loads may also include one or more traction motors, which means (in the context of a ship) one or more motors that have a sufficiently large power output and are arranged / coupled individually or cooperatively to propel the ship along the course. For example, one or more traction motors may be operably coupled to a propeller drive system so that when the traction motor receives a specified power (in terms of amplitude and waveform), it rotates the propeller (e.g., directly or through a shaft / drive / gear system) for ship propulsion. Other loads may include pumps, hydraulic actuators, etc.

[0082] In an embodiment, Figure 1The power receiving system shown is a rail vehicle or includes a rail vehicle (e.g., a locomotive) that includes an inverter system 100 and a DC link bus 120. The inverter system 100 is configured to convert power sent to or from the DC link bus 120. The rail vehicle includes one or more electrical loads that are configured to receive power (e.g., converted power) from the bus and / or the inverter system. Such loads may include auxiliary motors. Such loads may also include one or more traction motors, which means one or more motors that have a sufficiently large power output and are arranged / coupled individually or cooperatively to propel the rail vehicle along the route. For example, one or more traction motors may be operably coupled to respective axle-wheel pairs (e.g., through a large gear) so that when the traction motor receives a specified power (in terms of amplitude and waveform), it rotates the axle and wheel of the axle-wheel pair to move the vehicle along the track. Other loads may include pumps, hydraulic actuators, compressors, etc.

[0083] It should be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative rather than restrictive. For example, the above embodiments (and / or aspects thereof) can be used in combination with each other. In addition, many modifications can be made to adapt specific situations or materials to the teachings of the subject matter of the present invention without departing from its scope. Although the size and type of materials described herein are intended to limit the parameters of the subject matter of the present invention, they are by no means restrictive, but exemplary embodiments. After browsing the above description, many other embodiments will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. Therefore, the scope of the subject matter of the present invention should be determined with reference to the appended claims and the full scope of equivalents limited by these claims. In the appended claims, the terms "including" and "wherein" are used as the plain English equivalents of the corresponding terms "including" and "wherein". In addition, in the appended claims, the terms "first", "second" and "third" etc. are used only as marks and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects. In addition, the limitations of the appended claims are not written in a device-plus-function form and are not intended to be interpreted based on 35 U.S.C. § 112 (f), unless until such a claim limitation explicitly uses the phrase "device for...", followed by a functional statement without further structure.

[0084] This written description uses examples to disclose several embodiments of the inventive subject matter, including the best mode, and also to enable a person skilled in the art to practice the embodiments of the inventive subject matter, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the inventive subject matter is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to a person skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal language of the claims.

[0085] As used herein, elements or steps listed in the singular and beginning with the word "one" or "an" should be understood as not excluding the plural number of the elements or operations, unless such exclusion is explicitly stated. In addition, reference to "one embodiment" of the present invention is not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that include the described features. In addition, unless explicitly stated to the contrary, an embodiment "including", "comprising", or "having" one or more elements having a particular property may include additional such elements that do not have that property.

Claims

1. An inverter system, comprising: a switch configured to alternate between a closed state and an open state to respectively conduct or block current from a common power source through the switch; as well as a plurality of switch controllers configured to control the operation of the switches between the closed state and the open state, wherein, in a first operation mode, the plurality of switch controllers are configured to control the operations of the switches to convert direct current into alternating current of a single common phase outputted from the same phase of each of the switches, so as to use the alternating current of the single common phase to supply power to a first demand load having a first power demand of the power receiving system, and Wherein, in the second operation mode, the multiple switch controllers are further configured to control the operation of the switches to convert the direct current into multiple alternating currents of different phases, so as to utilize the multiple alternating currents of different phases to power a second demand load of the power receiving system having a second power demand, wherein the second power demand is lower than the first power demand, and each of the switches outputs a different phase among the multiple phases.

2. The inverter system according to claim 1, wherein: The switch and the plurality of switch controllers are included in a single inverter group among a plurality of inverter groups of the power receiving system, Each of the inverter groups is configured to convert the direct current into alternating current of a different single phase relative to each other inverter group, so as to supply power to a first demand load of the power receiving system using the alternating current of the different single phase.

3. The inverter system according to claim 2, wherein: A first inverter group of the plurality of inverter groups is configured to convert the direct current into an alternating current of a first single common phase from each of the switches of the first inverter group, A second inverter group among the plurality of inverter groups is configured to convert the direct current into alternating current of a different second single common phase from each of the switches of the second inverter group.

4. The inverter system according to claim 1, wherein: The switches are in plural and are configured to be electrically coupled to each other in parallel electrical connection or in series electrical connection.

5. The inverter system according to claim 1, wherein: The first demand load is a propulsion load of a vehicle that propels the power receiving system. The second demand load is a non-propulsion generating load.

6. The inverter system according to claim 1, further comprising a main controller configured to control operations of the plurality of switch controllers, in, The master controller is configured to direct the plurality of switch controllers to control operation of the switches between the closed state and the open state.

7. The inverter system according to claim 1, wherein: The same phase output from each of the switches is added together for the single common phase of the first demand load.

8. A method for controlling operation of an inverter system, the method comprising: In a first operating mode, using a plurality of switch controllers, the switches are alternately operated between a closed state and an open state to conduct direct current supplied to the switches into alternating current of a single common phase from a same phase output of each of the switches; as well as In a different second operation mode, using the plurality of switch controllers, the switches are caused to alternate between the closed state and the open state to convert the direct current into a plurality of alternating currents of different phases, wherein each of the switches outputs a different phase among the plurality of phases; wherein the AC power of the single common phase generated in the first operation mode is supplied to a power receiving system as a first demand load having a first power demand; and The plurality of alternating currents of different phases generated in the second operation mode are supplied to the power receiving system as a second demand load having a second power demand, which is lower than the first power demand.

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein: The switch and the plurality of switch controllers are included in a single inverter group among a plurality of inverter groups of the power receiving system, Each of the inverter groups is configured to convert the direct current into alternating current of a different single phase relative to each other inverter group, so as to supply power to a first demand load of the power receiving system using the alternating current of the different single phase.

10. The method according to claim 9, wherein: A first inverter group of the plurality of inverter groups is configured to convert the direct current into an alternating current of a first single common phase from each of the switches of the first inverter group, A second inverter group among the plurality of inverter groups is configured to convert the direct current into alternating current of a different second single common phase from each of the switches of the second inverter group.

11. The method according to claim 8, wherein: The switches are in plural and are configured to be electrically coupled to each other in parallel electrical connection or in series electrical connection.

12. The method according to claim 8, wherein: The first demand load is a propulsion load of a vehicle that propels the power receiving system. The second demand load is a non-propulsion generating load.

13. The method of claim 8, further comprising controlling the operation of the plurality of switch controllers using a master controller, in, The master controller is configured to direct the plurality of switch controllers to control operation of the switches between the closed state and the open state.

14. The method according to claim 8, wherein: The same phase output from each of the switches is added together for the single common phase of the first demand load.

15. An inverter system, comprising: a switch controllable between a closed state and an open state to respectively conduct or block current through the switch; as well as a plurality of switch controllers configured to control the operation of the switches between the closed state and the open state, wherein, in a first operation mode, the plurality of switch controllers are configured to control the operation of the switches to convert the first direct current into a single common first power output from all the switches, so as to utilize the first power output to supply power to a first demand load having a first power demand of a power receiving system, and Wherein, in the second operating mode, the multiple switch controllers are also configured to control the operation of the switches to convert the first direct current into multiple second power outputs, so as to utilize the second power outputs to power one or more second demand loads with second power requirements of the power receiving system, wherein the second power requirement is lower than the first power requirement, and each of the switches outputs a different one of the multiple second power outputs, and the second power output has one or more different voltage levels or a different waveform from each other second power output.

16. The inverter system according to claim 15, wherein: The first power output is a single-phase alternating current, and the second power output is a three-phase alternating current of a different phase for supplying power to a single second demand load among the one or more second demand loads; or The first power output is a DC power output having a first voltage level and a first power level, and the second power output is a corresponding DC power output having a voltage level and a power level lower than the first voltage level and the first power level of the DC power output of the first power output.

17. The inverter system according to claim 15, wherein: A single common first power output from all of the switches is added together to power the first demand load.

18. The inverter system according to claim 15, wherein: Currents from all of the switches are added together to power a first demand load of the powered system with the first power output.

19. The inverter system according to claim 15, further comprising a master controller configured to control operations of the plurality of switch controllers, in, The master controller is configured to direct the plurality of switch controllers to control operation of the switches between the closed state and the open state.

20. The inverter system according to claim 15, wherein: The first demand load is a propulsion load that propels the power receiving system. The second demand load is a non-propulsion generating load.

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